The 1st International Congress on Biodiversity and Agriculture, held this month in Jaén, concluded its first edition with a highly positive outcome, establishing itself as a benchmark event in the agro-environmental field. Over four intensive days, this forum brought together nearly 170 participants, including scientific experts, professionals from the agricultural sector, institutional representatives and members of civil society, in a shared space for dialogue and reflection on the future of rural areas. This initiative was promoted by the organization SEO/BirdLife within the framework of the LIFE Olivares Vivos+ project.
The city of Jaén, chosen as the venue due to its strategic role in olive growing and agricultural innovation, thus became the international epicentre of debate on the integration of biodiversity into production systems. The congress, held from 14 to 17 April, had as its main objective to demonstrate that agricultural production and the conservation of the natural environment are not only compatible, but interdependent.
One of the most notable aspects was the high quality of the presentations and working sessions. Leading researchers, together with sector professionals, contributed a rigorous and practical perspective, grounded in scientific evidence and real-world experience. The contributions addressed key issues such as the sustainability of agricultural models, resilience in the face of climate change and the economic value of biodiversity, fostering an enriching and action-oriented debate.
From theory to action
In addition, the congress successfully combined theoretical analysis with practical examples, particularly through initiatives such as the “Olivares Vivos” model, which shows how the recovery of biodiversity can translate into greater profitability for farmers. This approach reinforced the idea that scientific knowledge must be effectively transferred to the territory in order to drive real change.
The high level of participation achieved by this forum reflects the growing interest in meetings that bring together science, agriculture and public policy. Beyond the figures, its real success lies in the congress’s capacity to generate synergies and build collaborative networks among diverse stakeholders. Jaén is thus positioning itself as a reference point in the construction of a more sustainable agricultural model, in which biodiversity ceases to be a challenge and becomes an opportunity.
